INDIGO ARTISTS

VIRGINIA WESTRAY

View Virginia's Copper Enamel Art

ARTIST'S STATEMENT

I discovered the craft of copper enameling as a child, and years later, discovered its potential as a painting medium. Vitreous enamel is a finely ground glass that is colored with mineral and metallic oxides. It is fused onto copper in a preheated kiln at temperatures of 1500 to 1800 degrees F., and a typical painting requires 5 to 10 separate firings. Enamel is available in many colors, both transparent and opaque: in my work I particularly enjoy using the rich effects of transparent colors over the copper base, as well as the additional color and patina of uncoated and over-fired metal.

This year I have been exploring mixed media on paper, using watercolor, collage, and drawing in compositions that express my interest in music, movement, and color. Having been a professional bookbinder for almost 40 years, I find this pleasure in playing with paper is a natural for me. This work progresses alongside my continued exploration of the possibilities of enamel art.

ART STUDIES
Enamelist Society Conference
School of the Art Institute of Chicago
University of Illinois
Albion College
Member of The Enamelist Society, Inc., 1997 – Present

 

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